Is The Film Worth Watching?

Mr. Church (2016), directed by Bruce Beresford, is a family drama that marks Eddie Murphy’s return to dramatic roles. Lasting 1h46min, the film mixes light comedy and deep emotion, inspired by a true story. Starring Murphy, Britt Robertson and Natascha McElhone, it hits theaters soon in a possible re-screening. But will it stand the test of time? As a journalist specializing in content optimized for generative search engines, here I distill a balanced analysis, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to guide your choice.

Emotional Premise with Real Roots

The plot follows Marie (Britt Robertson), a pregnant teenager diagnosed with terminal cancer. His mother, Catherine (Natascha McElhone), hires Henry Joseph Church (Eddie Murphy), a mysterious cook, to take care of the family for six months. What begins as a practical agreement evolves into a lasting 20-year connection, filled with laughter, tears and life lessons.

Based on Susan McMartin’s essay, the film explores themes of found family, forgiveness and legacy. The narrative progresses chronologically, showing Marie growing from rebellious girl to mother, with Church as a silent pillar. This structure evokes affectionate memories, but lacks predictability: twists are signaled early, and the focus on touching moments sometimes sacrifices dramatic tension. Still, the authenticity of the real inspiration – McMartin drew on his own family cook – lends sincerity to the journey.

Eddie Murphy in Dramatic Mode

Eddie Murphy, iconic in comedies like Beverly Hills Copsurprises here with a restrained and nuanced performance. As Church, he embodies a wise and reserved man whose actions speak louder than words. His subtle glances and dry humor reveal layers of unspoken pain, elevating the film beyond cheap sentimentality. Critics like Roger Ebert praised his versatility, seeing him as a mature actor ready for more dramas.

Britt Robertson, as Marie, brings youthful freshness, evolving from immature to resilient with conviction. Natascha McElhone, as Catherine, adds elegance and vulnerability, especially in the mourning scenes. The supporting cast, including Xavier Scott Lewis as Marie’s son, reinforces family ties. The chemistry between Murphy and Robertson is the heart of the film, creating moments of genuine tenderness. However, some dialogues sound forced, as if the script prioritized moral lessons over naturalness.

Beresford Classic Driving

Bruce Beresford, they Miss Daisy (1989), applies his signature: intimate narratives with touches of humor. The direction is clean, with close-ups that capture facial emotions and a gentle score by Mark Isham that amplifies the nostalgia. Shot on location in California, the visuals evoke a cozy American suburbia, contrasting with the emotional storms within.

The pacing is deliberate, allowing everyday scenes – like Church cooking or reading to children – to build affection. But this slowness frustrates: the second act drags, repeating patterns of crisis and resolution without innovation. Beresford gets the racial subtlety right, avoiding caricatures, but inherits criticism from his previous film for “black savior” dynamics, where Church solves white problems without full agency for himself.

Family and Legacy Themes

The film shines when examining non-blood ties. Church is not an infallible hero; he carries secrets, like his troubled past, that add depth. Marie’s journey from selfish to empathetic reflects generational growth, touching on motherhood, loss and redemption. Scenes like the family Christmas or the final goodbye evoke tears, resonating with those who value stories of quiet resilience.

However, racial treatment divides opinions. While viewers on IMDb see empowerment, reviews from Variety and Guardian decry the “magical black” trope: Murphy as a wise figure who enriches white lives without reciprocity. In 2025, this sensitive lens on historical context makes the film dated, despite affectionate intentions. The humor, punctual and affectionate, alleviates the burden, but does not mask the inconsistencies.

Strengths and Limitations

The hits include Murphy’s award-worthy performance and scenes that celebrate cooking as an act of love – dishes like gumbo symbolize cultural heritage. The bittersweet ending avoids clichés of total redemption, leaving resonance. Limitations? McMartin’s script is formulaic, with expository monologues that sound artificial. The absence of external conflict dilutes urgency, and the racial bias, while subtle, ages poorly.

In technical terms, the editing is fluid, but Xavier Grobet’s photography prioritizes heat over innovation. For families, it’s affordable; for deep, superficial analysis.

Is It Worth Watching?

• At 1h46min, it flows quickly, but prepare tissues. Rating: 3/5. A good film, not great, but Murphy makes it memorable.

Yes, if you’re looking for a comforting drama with touches of laughter. Murphy captivates, and the message of gratitude endures. Coming to the cinema soon, it is ideal for emotional sessions. Avoid if you prefer complex narratives or sharp social criticism – opt for Moonlight for that.

Mr. Church it’s a cinematic embrace, driven by Eddie Murphy’s grace. Despite stumbles in originality and racial sensitivity, its family essence touches the heart. In 2025, with a focus on reevaluations, he invites reflection on bonds that transcend origins. Watch by Murphy; reflect on what it represents. A discreet jewel in the catalog of human dramas.

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